

The Russian Depopulation || Peter Zeihan
8 snips Feb 17, 2025
Explore the intricate landscape of Russian demographics as new birth and death data sheds light on alarming trends. Delve into the historical roots of population decline tied to wars and societal challenges, including substance abuse. The discussion highlights how these demographic shifts are impacting military strategy and state stability, raising questions about Russia's future in a rapidly changing world. Prepare for a thought-provoking insight into the forces shaping a nation!
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Russian Demographic History
- Russian demographic data has been unreliable for years, reflecting cultural and economic instability.
- Historical dips in birth rates correlate with periods of hardship, like wars and the post-Soviet collapse.
Factors in Russian Decline
- Khrushchev's housing policies and the post-Soviet collapse worsened Russia's demographic decline.
- The 1990s saw a "death cross," where the death rate exceeded the birth rate.
Temporary Population Growth
- Perestroika and high energy prices under Putin led to temporary birth rate increases.
- These "mini-booms" briefly reversed the "death cross" trend, creating a short-lived "life cross."